Spring latching connectors

ABSTRACT

A spring latching connector includes a housing having a bore therethrough, a piston slidably received in said bore, a circular groove formed in one of said bore and piston and a circular coil spring disposed in said groove for latching said piston and housing together. The groove is sized and shaped for controlling, in combination with a spring configuration, disconnect and connect forces of the spring latching connection.

FIELD OF ART

The present invention generally relates to connectors and is moredirectly related to the use of canted coil springs in connecting apiston and a housing for mechanical and electrical connection purposes.

BACKGROUND

The connection may be used to hold or latch and disconnect or unlatch.Various types of canted coil springs, such as radial, axial, or turnangle springs may be used depending on the characteristics desired for aparticular application.

Axial springs may be RF with coils canting clockwise or F with coilscanting counterclockwise, and installed or mounted with a front angle infront or in back relative to a direction of piston travel in aninsertion movement. The springs can be mounted in various manners in agroove in either the piston or the housing. While the spring isgenerally mounted in a round piston or a round housing, the canted coilspring is capable of being utilized in non-circular applications such aselliptical, square, rectangular, or lengthwise grooves.

Various applications require differing force and force ratios for theinitial insertion force, the running force, and the force required tolatch and disconnect mating parts. The force, the degree of constraintof the spring, the spring design, the materials used, and the ability ofthe spring and housing combination to apply a scraping motion to removeoxides that may form on mating parts have been found in accordance withthe present invention to determine the electrical performance of theconnector. Electrical performance means the resistivity and theresistivity variability of the mated parts.

SUMMARY

It has been found that the force to connect and the force to disconnectas well as the ratio between the two is determined by the position ofthe point of contact relative to the end point of the major axis of thespring when the disconnect or unlatch force is applied and thecharacteristics of the spring and the spring installation or mounting.The maximum force for a given spring occurs when the point of contact isclose to the end point of the major axis of the spring. The minimumforce for a given spring occurs when the contact point is at the maximumdistance from the end point of the major axis, which is the end point ofthe minor axis of the spring. This invention deals in part with themanner in which the end point is positioned. The material, springdesign, and method of installing the spring determine the springinfluenced performance characteristics of the invention.

Accordingly, a spring latching connector in accordance with the presentinvention generally includes a housing having a bore therethrough alongwith a piston slidably received in the bore. In one embodiment, thehousing bore and piston abut one another in order to eliminate axialplay.

A circular groove is formed in one of the bore and the piston and acircular coil spring is disposed in the groove for latching the pistonin a housing together.

Specifically, in accordance with the present invention a groove is sizedand shaped for controlling, in combination with a spring configuration,the disconnect and connect forces of the spring latching connector.

The circular coil spring preferably includes coils having a major axisand a minor axis and the circular groove includes a cavity forpositioning a point of contact in relation to an end of the coil majoraxis in order to determine the disconnect and the connect forces. Morespecifically, the groove cavity positions the point of contact proximatethe coil major axis in order to maximize the disconnect forces.Alternatively, the groove cavity may be positioned in order that thepoint of contact is proximate an end of the minor axis in order tominimize the disconnect force.

In addition, the coil height and groove width may be adjusted inaccordance with the present invention to control the disconnect andconnect forces.

Further, a major axis of the coil spring is disposed above an insidediameter of a housing groove for a housing mounted coil spring and belowan outer diameter of a piston groove for a piston-mounted coil spring.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention may be more clearly understood with reference tothe following detailed description in conjunction with the appendeddrawings of which:

FIG. 1A-shows a front view of a canted coil spring with the coilscanting counterclockwise as indicated by the arrow;

FIG. 1B shows and enlarged view of the coils;

FIG. 1C shows the position of the front and back angle;

FIG. 1D shows the difference between the lengths of the front angle andthe back angle;

FIG. 1E shows the position of the front and back angles;

FIG. 1F shows a cross sectional view of a radial spring.

FIG. 2A shows a radial spring in a flat bottom-housing groove;

FIG. 2B shows a left side view of the spring;

FIG. 2C shows a front view of a counterclockwise radial spring with afront angle in the front;

FIG. 2D shows a cross sectional view of the spring;

FIG. 2E shows a cross sectional view of the spring mounted in a housing,a reference dot point indicating a position of a front angle of a coil,“the end point of a major axis of the coil” being used to explain therelationship between a point of contact and the end point of the majoraxis of the coil when determining the unlatching or disconnect force,the dot point showing a position of the front angle of the coil;

FIGS. 3A-3E show a radial spring mounted clockwise in a flat bottomhousing groove with the front angle in the back, the spring having coilscanting clockwise;

FIGS. 4A-4E show a latching radial spring in a standard latching groove,housing mounted (shown in FIGS. 4A and 4E);

FIGS. 5A-5E show a radial spring axially loaded with the grooves offsetin a latched position with a housing bore and piston abutting oneanother for eliminating axial play, see FIG. 5A. This enhancesconductivity and reduces resistivity variation;

FIGS. 6A-6E and 7A-7E show the same type of design but piston mounted.FIGS. 6A-6E show a latching radial spring in a latching groove, pistonmounted, while FIGS. 7A-7E shows a latching radial spring with offsetaxial grooves for minimal axial play piston mounted. The features arethe same as indicated in FIGS. 4A-4E and 5A-5E except piston mounted.

FIG. 7A shows an abutting relationship between a housing bore and pistonsimilar to FIG. 5A;

FIGS. 8A-8D show a series of circular grooves holding multiple radialsprings mounted one in each groove. Each spring is separate from theothers, FIG. 8B showing one spring being compressed radially by theshaft as it moves in the direction of the arrow, FIG. 8A showing twosprings deflected radially in the direction of the arrow, FIG. 8Dshowing a cross section of the spring. Springs in a multiple mannercould also be axial;

FIGS. 9A-9E show a holding multiple radial springs mounted in multiplegrooves, this design being similar to the one indicated in FIGS. 8A-8Ebut the grooves are physically separated from each other, springs in amultiple manner may also be axial;

FIGS. 10A-10D show a holding length spring mounted axially in a threadedgroove, FIG. 10B showing the piston partially engaging the housing bydeflecting the spring coils, FIG. 10A showing the shaft moving in thedirection of the arrow with further compression of the spring coils,FIG. 10D showing a length of the spring;

FIGS. 11A-11E shows a face compression axial spring retained by insideangular sidewall;

FIGS. 12A-12E show a latching radial spring in a radial groove designedfor high disconnect to insertion ratio shown radially loaded and causingthe coils to turn to provide axial load to reduce axial movement. GW>CH;

FIGS. 13A-13E show a latching axial spring in an axial groove designedfor high disconnect to insertion ratio with the spring shown in anaxially loaded position to limit axial play, the spring coils assuming aturn angle position that increases force and provides higherconductivity with reduced variability;

FIGS. 14A-14K show a spring with ends threaded to form a continuousspring-ring without welding joining, which is different than the designindicated in FIG. 1;

FIGS. 15A-15K show a spring with end joined by a male hook and step-downcircular female end to form a continuous circular spring-ring withoutwelding;

FIGS. 16A-16L show a spring with the coil ends connected by interlacingthe end coils to form a continuous spring-ring without welding orjoining;

FIGS. 17A-17L show a spring with coils ends butted inside the grooveforming a spring-ring without welding; and

FIGS. 18A-18F show an unwelded spring ring and to be housed in a flatbottom housing groove, front angle in the front, showing the variousdifferent designs that could be used to retain the spring in a groovethat can be a housing groove or a piston groove.

FIG. 19a , row 2, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing having a groove with a flat bottom anda canted coil spring located therein, which has a counterclockwiseturning direction.

FIG. 19a , row 3, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing having a groove with a flat bottom anda canted coil spring located therein, which has a clockwise turningdirection.

FIG. 19a , row 4, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing having a groove with a V-bottom and acanted coil spring located therein, which has a counterclockwise turningdirection.

FIG. 19a , row 5, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing having a groove with a V-bottom and acanted coil spring located therein, which has a clockwise turningdirection.

FIG. 19a , row 6, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing having a flat bottom groove having acanted coil spring located therein, which has a counterclockwise turningdirection.

FIG. 19a , row 7, columns 2-15, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a flat bottom groove with acanted coil spring located therein, which can be clockwise turningdirection or a counterclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 19a , row 8, columns 2-15, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a flat bottom groove with acanted coil spring located therein, which can be a counterclockwiseturning direction.

FIG. 19a , row 9, columns 2-15, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a flat bottom groove with acanted coil spring located therein, which can be a clockwise turningdirection.

FIG. 19b , row 2, columns 2-15, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a flat bottom groove with acanted coil spring located therein, which can be a clockwise turningdirection or a clockwise turning direction.

FIG. 19b , row 3, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a v-bottom groove with a cantedcoil spring located therein, which can be a clockwise turning direction.

FIG. 19b , row 4, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a flat bottom groove with acanted coil spring located therein, which can be a clockwise turningdirection.

FIG. 19b , row 5, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a v-bottom groove with a cantedcoil spring located therein, which can be a clockwise turning direction.

FIG. 19b , row 6, columns 2-15, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a v-bottom groove with a cantedcoil spring located therein, which can be a clockwise turning direction,and the coils can be off-setting along the coil axis.

FIG. 19b , row 7, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a stepwise insertion of a pin into a housing with asemi-tapered groove with a canted coil spring located therein, which canbe a clockwise turning direction.

FIG. 19b , row 8, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a tapered-bottom groove with acanted coil spring located therein, which can be a clockwise turningdirection.

FIG. 19b , row 9, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a unidirectional-tapered-bottomgroove with a canted coil spring located therein, which can be aclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 19c , row 2, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a unidirectional-tapered-bottomgroove with a canted coil spring located therein, which can be aclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 19c , row 3, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a unidirectional-tapered-bottomgroove with a canted coil spring located therein, which can be aclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 19c , row 4, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a tapered-bottom groove with acanted coil spring located therein, which can be a clockwise turningdirection in the opposite direction.

FIG. 19c , row 5, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a tapered-bottom groove with acanted coil spring located therein, which can be a clockwise turningdirection in the opposite direction.

FIG. 19c , row 6, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a tapered-bottom groove with acanted coil spring located therein, which can be a clockwise turningdirection.

FIG. 19c , row 7, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a tapered-bottom groove with acanted coil spring located therein, which can be a clockwise turningdirection.

FIG. 19c , row 8, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a round-bottom groove with acanted coil spring located therein, which can be a clockwise turningdirection.

FIG. 19c , row 9, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with an inverted-V-bottom groove witha canted coil spring located therein, which can be a clockwise turningdirection.

FIG. 19d , row 2, columns 2-15, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a tapered-bottom groove with acanted coil spring located therein, which can be a counterblockwise or aclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 19d , row 3, columns 2-15, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a tapered-bottom groove with acanted coil spring located therein, which can be a counterclockwiseturning direction.

FIG. 19d , row 4, columns 2-15, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a tapered-bottom groove with acanted coil spring located therein, which can be a clockwise turningdirection.

FIG. 19d , row 5, columns 2-15, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a tapered-bottom groove with acanted coil spring located therein, which can be a clockwise or acounterclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 19d , row 6, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a dovetail groove with a cantedcoil spring located therein, which can be a counterclockwise turningdirection.

FIG. 19d , row 7, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a special groove with a cantedcoil spring located therein, which can be a counterclockwise turningdirection.

FIG. 19d , row 8, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with an angle 0°-22.5° bottom groovewith a canted coil spring located therein, which can be acounterclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 19d , row 9, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with an angle 0°-22.5° bottom groovewith a canted coil spring located therein, which can be a clockwiseturning direction.

FIG. 19e , row 2, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with an angle 0°-22.5° bottom groovewith a canted coil spring located therein, which can be acounterclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 19e , row 3, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with an angle 22.5°-22.5° bottomgroove with a canted coil spring located therein, which can be acounterclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 19e , row 4, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with an angle 30.0°-22.5° bottomgroove with a canted coil spring located therein, which can be acounterclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 19e , row 5, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with an angle 60.0°-22.5° bottomgroove with a canted coil spring located therein, which can be acounterclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 19e , row 6, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a special V-bottom with 23° and60° angles groove with a canted coil spring located therein, which canbe a counterclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 19e , row 7, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a special V-bottom with 23° and60° angles groove with a canted coil spring located therein, which canbe a counterclockwise turning direction that continues to travel forwardafter latching and then travels back.

FIG. 19e , row 8, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a special V-bottom with 22°-60°angles groove with a canted coil spring located therein, which can be acounterclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 19e , row 9, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a special V-bottom with 23° and60° angles groove with a canted coil spring located therein, which has a20° clockwise turn angle.

FIG. 19e , row 10, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a special V-bottom with 30° and60° angles groove with a canted coil spring located therein, which has a20° clockwise turn angle.

FIG. 19f , row 2, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a special V-bottom with 30° and60° angles groove with a canted coil spring located therein, which has a20° clockwise turn angle.

FIG. 19f row 3, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a special V-bottom with 60° and49° angles groove with a canted coil spring located therein, which has a20° clockwise turn angle.

FIG. 19f , row 4, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a special groove with a cantedcoil spring located therein, which has a 45° clockwise turn angle.

FIG. 19f , row 5, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a special-tapered-bottom with 30°angle groove with a canted coil spring located therein, which has a 45°clockwise turn angle.

FIG. 19f , row 6, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a side-located angular groovewith a canted coil spring located therein, which can be a clockwiseturning direction.

FIG. 19f , row 7, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a side-loaded-no-angle groovewith a canted coil spring located therein, which can be a clockwiseturning direction.

FIG. 19f , row 8, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with a side-loaded-symmetrical-anglesgroove with a canted coil spring located therein, which can be aclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 19f , row 9, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin, with a flat bottom groove, into a housing with aflat-bottom groove with a canted coil spring located therein, which canbe a counterclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 19g , row 2, columns 2-13, shows insertion and removal of a panelinto a groove and canted coil spring reaction during the process.

FIG. 19g , row 3, columns 2-13, shows insertion and removal of a panelinto a groove and canted coil spring reaction during the process.

FIG. 19g , row 4, columns 2-13, shows insertion and removal of a panelinto a groove and canted coil spring reaction during the process.

FIG. 19g , row 5, columns 2-13, shows insertion and removal of a panelinto a groove and canted coil spring reaction during the process.

FIG. 19g , row 6, columns 2-13, shows insertion and removal of a panelinto a groove and canted coil spring reaction during the process.

FIG. 19g , row 7 columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with an angle 22.5°-22.5° bottomgroove with a canted coil spring located therein, which can be acounterclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 19g , row 8, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with an angle 22.5°-22.5° bottomgroove with a canted coil spring located therein, which can be acounterclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 19g , row 9, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin into a housing with an angle 22.5°-22.5° bottomgroove with a canted coil spring located therein, which can be acounterclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20a , row 2, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a flat-bottom groove with a canted coil springlocated therein into a housing, wherein the spring can be acounterclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20a , row 3, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a flat-bottom groove with a canted coil springlocated therein into a housing, wherein the spring can be a clockwiseturning direction.

FIG. 20a , row 4, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a V-bottom groove with a canted coil springlocated therein into a housing, wherein the spring can be acounterclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20a , row 5, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a flat-bottom axial groove with a canted coilspring located therein into a housing, wherein the spring can be aclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20a , row 6, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a flat-bottom-axial groove with a canted coilspring located therein into a housing, which can be a counterclockwiseturning direction.

FIG. 20a , row 7, columns 2-15, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a flat-bottom-axial groove with a canted coilspring located therein that is mounted in RF axial position into ahousing, wherein the spring can be a counterclockwise or clockwiseturning direction.

FIG. 20a , row 8, columns 2-15, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a flat-bottom-axial groove with a canted coilspring located therein that is mounted in F axial position into ahousing, which can be a counterclockwise or clockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20a , row 9, columns 2-15, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a flat-bottom-axial groove with a canted coilspring located therein that is mounted in RF axial position into ahousing, which can be a clockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20b , row 2, columns 2-15, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a flat-bottom-axial groove with a canted coilspring located therein that is mounted in F axial position into ahousing, wherein the spring can be a clockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20b , row 3, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a V-bottom groove with a canted coil springlocated therein into a housing, wherein the spring can be a clockwiseturning direction.

FIG. 20b , row 4, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a flat-bottom groove with a canted coil springlocated therein into a housing, which can be a clockwise turningdirection.

FIG. 20b , row 5, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a V-bottom-tapered groove with a canted coilspring located therein into a housing, wherein the spring can be aclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20b , row 6, columns 2-15, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a V-bottomed-tapered groove with a canted andoffset coil spring located therein into a housing, wherein the springcan be a clockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20b , row 7, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a semi-tapered groove with a canted coil springlocated therein into a housing, wherein the spring can be a clockwiseturning direction.

FIG. 20b , row 8, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a tapered-bottom groove with a canted coilspring located therein into a housing, wherein the spring can be aclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20b , row 9, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a unidirectional-tapered bottom groove with asmaller GW and a canted coil spring located therein into a housing,wherein the spring can be a clockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20c , row 2, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a unidirectional-tapered-bottom groove with asmaller GD and a canted coil spring located therein into a housing,wherein the spring can be a clockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20c , row 3, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a unidirectional-tapered-bottom groove with alarger tapered angle and a canted coil spring located therein into ahousing, wherein the spring can be a clockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20c , row 4, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a tapered-bottom groove with a RF axial springshaft inserted in the opposite direction and a canted coil springlocated therein into a housing, wherein the spring can be a clockwiseturning direction.

FIG. 20c , row 5, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a tapered-bottom groove with 45° turn anglespring-shaft travels in the convex direction and a canted coil springlocated therein into a housing, wherein the spring can be a clockwiseturning direction.

FIG. 20c , row 6, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a tapered-bottom groove with a RF axial springfilled with elastomer (hollowed) and a canted coil spring locatedtherein into a housing, wherein the spring can be a clockwise turningdirection.

FIG. 20c , row 7, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a tapered-bottom groove with a RF axial springfilled with elastomer (solid) and a canted coil spring located thereininto a housing, wherein the spring can be a clockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20c , row 8, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a round-bottom groove with a canted coil springlocated therein into a housing, wherein the spring can be a clockwiseturning direction.

FIG. 20c , row 9, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with an inverted-V-bottom groove with a canted coilspring located therein into a housing, wherein the spring can be aclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20d , row 2, columns 2-15, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a tapered-bottom groove with a canted coilspring located therein that is mounted in RF axial position into ahousing, which can be a counterclockwise or a clockwise turningdirection.

FIG. 20d , row 3, columns 2-15, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a tapered-bottom groove with a canted coilspring located therein that is mounted in F axial position into ahousing, wherein the spring can be a counterclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20d , row 4, columns 2-15, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a tapered-bottom groove with a canted coilspring located therein that is mounted in RF axial position into ahousing, wherein the spring can be a clockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20d , row 5, columns 2-15, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a canted coil spring located therein that ismounted in F axial position into a housing with a tapered- bottomgroove, wherein the spring can be a clockwise or a counterclockwiseturning direction.

FIG. 20d , row 6, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a dovetail groove with a canted coil springlocated therein into a housing, wherein the spring can be acounterclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20d , row 7, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a special groove with a canted coil springlocated therein into a housing, wherein the spring can be acounterclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20d , row 8, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with an angle 0°-22.5°-bottom groove with a cantedcoil spring located therein into a housing, wherein the spring can be acounterclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20d , row 9, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with an angle 0°-22.5°-bottom groove with a cantedcoil spring with a small diameter located therein into a housing,wherein the spring can be a clockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20e , row 2, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with an angle 0°-22.5°-bottom groove with a cantedcoil spring located therein into a housing, wherein the spring can be acounterclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20e , row 3, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with an angle 22.5°-22.5°-bottom groove with a cantedcoil spring located therein into a housing, wherein the spring can be acounterclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20e , row 4, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with an angle 30.0°-22.5°-bottom groove with a cantedcoil spring located therein into a housing, wherein the spring can be acounterclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20e , row 5, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with an angle 60.0°-22.5°-bottom groove with a cantedcoil spring located therein into a housing, wherein the spring can be acounterclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20e , row 6, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a special-V-bottom with 23° and 60° anglesgroove with a canted coil spring located therein into a housing, whereinthe spring can be a counterclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20e , row 7, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a special-V-bottom with 23° and 60° anglesgroove with a radial spring shaft that continues to travel forward afterlatching and then travels back and a canted coil spring located thereininto a housing, wherein the spring can be a counterclockwise turningdirection.

FIG. 20e , row 8, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a special-V-bottom with 22°-60° angles groovewith a canted coil spring located therein into a housing, wherein thespring can be a counterclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20e , row 9, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a special V-bottom with 23° and 60° anglesgroove with a canted coil spring located therein into a housing, whereinthe spring has a 20° clockwise turning angle.

FIG. 20f , row 2, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a special V-bottom with 30° and 60° anglesgroove with a canted coil spring located therein into a housing, whereinthe spring has a 30° clockwise turning angle.

FIG. 20f , row 3, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a special V-bottom with 60° and 49° anglesgroove with a canted coil spring located therein into a housing, whereinthe spring has a 20° clockwise turning angle.

FIG. 20f , row 4, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a special groove with a canted coil springlocated therein into a housing, wherein the spring has a 45° clockwiseturning angle.

FIG. 20f , row 5, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a special-tapered-bottom with 30° angle groovewith a canted coil spring located therein into a housing, wherein thespring has a 45° clockwise turning angle.

FIG. 20f row 6, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a pin with a flat-bottom groove with a canted coil springlocated therein into a housing, wherein the spring can be acounterclockwise turning direction.

FIG. 20f , row 7, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a plate having a groove with a canted coil spring locatedtherein into a base.

FIG. 20f , row 8, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a plate having a groove with a cated coil spring locatedtherein into a base.

FIG. 20f , row 9, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a plate having a groove with a canted coil spring locatedtherein into a base.

FIG. 20g , row 2, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a plate having a groove with a canted coil spring locatedtherein into a base.

FIG. 20g , row 3, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a plate having a groove with a canted coil spring locatedtherein into a base.

FIG. 20g , row 4, columns 2-13, shows different views of a stepwiseinsertion of a plate having a groove with a canted coil spring locatedtherein into a base.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Connectors using latching applications have been described extensively,as for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,974,821, 5,139,276, 5,082,390,5,545,842, 5,411,348 and others.

Groove configurations have been divided in two types: one type with aspring retained in a housing described in FIGS. 19 a-19 g and anotherwith the spring retained in a shaft described in FIGS. 20 a-20 g.

Definitions

A definition of terms utilized in the present application isappropriate.

Definition of a radial canted coil spring. A radial canted coil springhas its compression force perpendicular or radial to the centerline ofthe arc or ring.

Definition of axial canted coil spring. An axial canted coil spring hasits compression force parallel or axial to the centerline of the arc orring.

The spring can also assume various angular geometries, varying from 0 to90 degrees and can assume a concave or a convex position in relation tothe centerline of the spring.

Definition of concave and convex. For the purpose of this patentapplication, concave and convex are defined as follows:

The position that a canted coil spring assumes when a radial or axialspring is assembled into a housing and positioned by—passing a pistonthrough the ID so that the ID is forward of the centerline is in aconvex position.

When the spring is assembled into the piston, upon passing the pistonthrough a housing, the spring is positioned by the housing so that theOD of the spring is behind the centerline of the spring is in a convexposition.

The spring-rings can also be extended for insertion into the groove orcompressed into the groove. Extension of the spring consists of makingthe spring ID larger by stretching or gartering the ID of the spring toassume a new position when assembled into a groove or the spring canalso be made larger than the groove cavity diameter and then compressedthe groove.

Canted coil springs are available in radial and axial applications.Generally, a radial spring is assembled so that it is loaded radially.An axial spring is generally assembled into a cavity so that the radialforce is applied along the major axis of the coil, while the coils arecompressed axially and deflect axially along the minor axis of the coil.

Radial springs. Radial springs can have the coils cantingcounterclockwise (FIG. 19 a, row 2, column 13) or clockwise (FIG. 19 a,row 3, column 13). When the coils cant counterclockwise, the front angleis in the front (row 2, column 13). When the coils cant clockwise (FIG.19 a, row 3, column 13), the back angle is in the front. Upon insertinga pin or shaft through the inside diameter of the spring with the springmounted in the housing in a counterclockwise position (FIG. 19 a, row 2,columns 2, 3, 5), the shaft will come in contact with the front angle ofthe coil and the force developed during insertion will be less than whencompressing the back angle from a spring in a clockwise position. Thedegree of insertion force will vary depending on various factors. Therunning force will be about the same (FIG. 19 a, row 2, columns 6, 8).

RUNNING FORCE. Running force is the frictional force that is producedwhen a constant diameter portion of the pin is passed through thespring.

Axial springs may also be assembled into a cavity whose groove width issmaller than the coil height (FIG. 19 a, row 5, columns 2, 3, 5, 6, 7and 8). Assembly can be done by inserting spring (FIG. 19 a, row 5,column 13) into the cavity or by taking the radial spring (FIG. 19 a,row 7, column 13) and turning the spring coils clockwise 90.degree. intoa clockwise axial spring (FIG. 19 a, row 7, column 15) and insertinginto the cavity. Under such conditions, the spring will assume an axialposition, provided the groove width is smaller than the coil height.Under such conditions, the insertion and running force will be slightlyhigher than when an axial spring is assembled into the same cavity. Thereason is that upon turning the radial spring at assembly, a higherradial force is created, requiring a higher insertion and running force.

Axial springs RF and F definition. Axial springs can be RF (FIG. 19 a,row 5, column 13) with the coils canting clockwise or they can be F(FIG. 19 a, row 6, column 13) with the coils canting counterclockwise.An RF spring is defined as one in which the spring ring has the backangle at the ID of the coils (FIG. 19 a, row 5, column 12) with thefront angle on the OD of the coils. An F spring (FIG. 19 a, row 6,column 13) has the back angle on the OD and the front angle at the ID ofthe coils.

Turn angle springs are shown in FIG. 19 e, row 10, column 13, FIG. 19 f,rows 2-5, column 13. The springs can be made with turn angles between 0and 90 degrees. This spring can have a concave direction (FIG. 19 a, row5, column 6) or a convex direction (FIG. 19 a, row 5, column 8) whenassembled into the cavity, depending on the direction in which the pinis inserted. This will affect the insertion and running force.

F type axial springs always develop higher insertion and running forcesthan RF springs. The reason is that in an F spring the back angle isalways located at the OD of the spring, which produces higher forces.

Definition of Point of Contact. The point of load where the force isapplied on the coil during unlatching or disconnecting of the two matingparts. (FIG. 19 a, row 2, column 11, row 5, column 11).

Definition of “end of the major axis of the coil.” The point at the endof the major axis of the coil. (FIG. 19 a, row 2, column 2 and row 5,column 2).

Types of grooves that may be used.

Flat groove. (FIG. 19 a, row 2, column 4) The simplest type of groove isone that has a flat groove with the groove width larger than the coilwidth of the spring. In such case, the force is applied radially.

‘V’ bottom groove. (FIG. 19 a, row 4, column 4) This type of grooveretains the spring better in the cavity by reducing axial movement andincreasing the points of contact. This enhances electrical conductivityand reduces the variability of the conductivity. The groove width islarger than the coil width. The spring force is applied radially.

Grooves for axial springs. (FIG. 19 a, row 5, column 2) Grooves foraxial springs are designed to better retain the spring at assembly. Insuch cases, the groove width is smaller than the coil height. Atassembly, the spring is compressed along the minor axis axially and uponthe insertion of a pin or shaft through the ID of the spring the spring,the coils deflect along the minor axis axially.

There are variations of these grooves from a flat bottom groove to atapered bottom groove.

Axial springs using flat bottom groove. In such cases, the degree ofdeflection available on the spring is reduced compared to a radialspring, depending on the interference that occurs between the coilheight and the groove width.

The greater the interference between the spring coil height and thegroove, the higher the force to deflect the coils and the higher theinsertion and running forces.

In such cases, the spring is loaded radially upon passing a pin throughthe ID. The deflection occurs by turning the spring angularly in thedirection of movement of the pin. An excessive amount of radial forcemay cause permanent damage to the spring because the spring coils have“no place to go” and butts.

Axial springs with grooves with a tapered bottom. (FIG. 19 b, rows 7-9,column 2 through FIG. 19 c, rows 2-7, column 2) A tapered bottom groovehas the advantage that the spring deflects gradually compared to a flatbottom groove. When a pin is passed through the ID of the spring, itwill deflect in the direction of motion. The running force depends onthe direction of the pin and the type of spring. Lower forces will occurwhen the pin moves in a concave spring direction (FIG. 19 b, row 5,column 6) and higher force when the pin moves in a convex springdirection (FIG. 19 b, row 5, column 8).

Tapered bottom grooves have the advantage that the spring has asubstantial degree of deflection, which occurs by compressing the springradially, thus allowing for a greater degree of tolerance variationwhile remaining functional as compared to flat bottom grooves.

Mounting of groove. Grooves can be mounted in the piston or in thehousing, depending on the application. Piston mounted grooves aredescribed in FIGS. 20 a-20 g.

Expansion and contracting of springs. A radial spring ring can beexpanded from a small inside diameter to a larger inside diameter andcan also be compressed from a larger OD to a smaller OD by crowding theOD of the spring into the same cavity. When expanding a spring the backangle and front angles of the spring coils decrease, thus increasing theconnecting and running forces. When compressing a radial spring OD intoa cavity, which is smaller than the OD of the spring, the coils aredeflected radially, causing the back and front angles to increase. Theincrease of these angles reduces the insertion and running forces whenpassing a pin through the ID of the spring.

The following patents and patent application are to be incorporated inthis patent application as follows: [0073] 1) U.S. Pat. No. 4,893,795sheet 2 FIGS. 4, 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, 5E, 6A and 6B; [0074] 2) U.S. Pat. No.4,876,781 sheet 2 and sheet 3 FIGS. 5A, 5B, and FIG. 6. [0075] 3) U.S.Pat. No. 4,974,821 page 3 FIGS. 8 and 9 [0076] 4) U.S. Pat. No.5,108,078 sheet 1 FIGS. 1 through 6 [0077] 5) U.S. Pat. No. 5,139,243page 1 and 2 FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2A, 2B and also FIGS. 4A, 4B, 5A, and 5E[0078] 6) U.S. Pat. No. 5,139,276 sheet 3 FIGS. 10A, 10B, 10C, 11A, 11B,12A, 12B, 12C, 13A, 13B, and 14 [0079] 7) U.S. Pat. No. 5,082,390 sheet2 and 3, FIGS. 4A, 4B, 5A, 5B, 6A, 6B, 7A, 7C, 8A, 8B [0080] 8) U.S.Pat. No. 5,091,606 sheets 11, 12, and 14. FIGS. 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47,48, 48A, 48B, 49, 50A, 50B, 50C, 51A, 51B, 51C, 58A, 58B, 58C, 58D.[0081] 9) U.S. Pat. No. 5,545,842 sheets 1, 2, 3, and 5. FIGS. 1, 4, 6,9, 13, 14, 19, 26A, 26B, 27A, 27B, 28A, 28B. [0082] 10) U.S. Pat. No.5,411,348 sheets 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. FIGS. 5A, 5C, 6A, 6C, 7A, 7C, 7D,8A, 8B, 8C, 9A, 9C, 10C, 11, 12 and 17. [0083] 11) U.S. Pat. No.5,615,870 Sheets 1-15, Sheets 17-23 with FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8,9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26,27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44,45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 66,67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84,85, 86, 87, 88, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104,105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118,119, 120, 121, 123, 124, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133,134, 135. [0084] 12) U.S. Pat. No. 5,791,638 Sheets 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7,8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23. FIGS. 1-61 and66-88 and 92-135. [0085] 13) U.S. Pat. No. 5,709,371, page 1, 2, 3, 4,5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23. FIGS.1-61 and 66-88 and 92-135. [0086] 14) Application for patent by Balsellsentitled “Spring Holding Connectors” Customer Ser. No. 10/777,974 filedFeb. 12, 2004.

In general, FIGS. 19 a-19 g illustrate housing mounted designs forholding and other applications. These FIGS. show 53 different types ofgrooves and spring geometries in which the spring is mounted in thehousing, using different spring configurations and different groovevariations, which result in different insertion and running forces.

FIG. 19 a, row 2, columns 2-12 show a flat bottom groove with a radialspring.

FIG. 19 a, row 2, column 2 shows an assembly with a spring mounted in ahousing with a shaft moving forward axially.

FIG. 19 a, row 2, column 3 shows the assembly in a latched position.

FIG. 19 a, row 2, column 4 shows schematic of a flat bottom groove.

FIG. 19 a, row 2, column 5 shows and enlarged portion of FIG. 19A, row2, column 2.

FIG. 19 a, row 2, column 6 shows the assembly in a hold running connectdirection

FIG. 19 a, row 2, column 7 shows an enlarged portion of FIG. 19 a, row2, column 3 in a latch position.

FIG. 19 a, row 2, column 8 shows the assembly in a hold runningdisconnect direction.

FIG. 19 a, row 2, column 9 shows the assembly returning to the insertingposition.

FIG. 19 a, row 2, column 10 shows an enlarged view of the point ofcontact between the coils and the shaft.

FIG. 19 a, row 2, column 11 shows an enlarged view of FIG. 19 a, row 2,column 3.

FIG. 19 a, row 2, column 12 shows a cross section of the radial springwith the dot indicating the front angle.

FIG. 19 a, row 2, column 13 shows the spring in a free position andshows a front view of the canted coil counterclockwise radial springwith the front angle in front.

FIG. 19 a, row 3, columns 2-12 show a spring mounted 180.degree. fromthat shows in FIG. 19 a, row 2 in a clockwise position.

FIG. 19 a, row 4, columns 1-12 show a V-bottom groove with acounterclockwise radial spring.

FIG. 19 a, row 5, columns 1-12 show a flat bottom axial groove with anRF axial spring. The groove width is smaller than the coil height andthe point of contact is closer to the centerline of the major axis ofthe spring coil. The closer the point of contact is to the point at theend of the major axis of the coil, the higher the force required todisconnect in a convex direction. (FIG. 19 a, row 5, columns 7-8).

FIG. 19 a, row 6, columns 2-12 show a flat bottom groove with an F axialspring. The groove width is smaller than the coil height.

FIG. 19 a, rows 7-8 and FIG. 19 b, row 9 show a radial spring turnedinto an axial spring by assembling this spring into a cavity in an axialposition.

More specifically, FIG. 19 a, row 6 shows a flat bottom axial groovewith counterclockwise radial spring mounted in an RF axial position. Thegroove width is smaller than the coil height.

FIG. 19 a, row 8 is a flat bottom groove with a counterclockwise radialspring mounted in an F axial position.

FIG. 19 a, row 9 is a flat bottom groove with a clockwise radial springmounted in an RF axial position. The groove width smaller than the coilheight, and

FIG. 19 b, row 2 shows a flat bottom axial groove with clockwise radialspring mounted in F axial position. Groove width smaller than the coilheight.

FIG. 19 b, row 3 shows a V bottom groove with an RF axial spring. Thegroove width is smaller than the coil height.

FIG. 19 b, row 4 shows a flat bottom groove with an RF axial spring witha groove width larger than the coil height. Making the groove widthlarger than the coil heights allows the point of contact to move furtheraway from the point at the end of the major axis of the coil atdisconnect thus decreasing the force.

FIG. 19 b, row 5 shows a V bottom flat groove with RF axial spring. Thegroove width is larger than the coil height. (GW>CH)

FIG. 19 b, row 6 shows a design like FIG. 19 b, row 5, except that theRF axial spring has offset coils that fit into the groove. The offsetcoils allow partial contact holding within the groove at differentintervals along the groove diameter walls, and the coils are deflectedaxially at different points of the groove on both sides sufficiently toretain the spring in place. The offset coils increase the total axialcoil height, which helps retain the spring inside the groove. Theinsertion and running forces are also reduced compared to FIG. 19 b, row5 where the groove width is smaller than the coil height. The differencein force is illustrated in FIG. 19 b, row 6, column 12, where forceversus shaft travel distance is shown illustrating the force developed.

FIG. 19 b, row 6, column 13 and 14 shows the offset coils in a freeposition.

FIG. 19 b, row 6, column 11 shows the point of contact in relation tothe point at the end of the major axis of the coils with the point ofcontact further away from the major axis of the coil thus decreasing theforce required to disconnect. This can be compared with FIG. 19 b, row8, column 11 whereby the point of contact is closer to the point at theend of the major axis of the coil, thus requiring a substantially higherforce to disconnect.

FIG. 19 b, row 7 shows an axial RF spring with a tapered bottom groovethat positions the point of contact (FIG. 19 b, row 7, column 11) closerto the end point at the end of the major axis of the coil than in FIG.19 b, row 6, column 11, thus requiring a greater force to disconnect.

FIG. 19 b, row 8 shows a tapered bottom groove of a differentconfiguration but similar to FIG. 19 b, row 7 with an RF axial springwith a groove width smaller than the coil height. The grooveconfiguration positions the point of contact closer to the end point atthe end of the major axis of the coil. An axial RF spring is used inthis design.

FIG. 19 b, row 9 shows a tapered bottom groove with RF axial spring witha groove width smaller than the coil height. The point of contact ispositioned at the end point of the major axis of the coil and disconnectis not possible as the force is applied along the major axis since thespring will not compress along that axis.

FIG. 19 c, row 2 shows a tapered bottom groove with an axial springmounted in the groove. The position of the spring is such that thecenterline along the minor axis is slightly above the bore, whichresults in less deflection of the spring, thus positioning the point ofcontact further away from the end point of the major axis of the coil,resulting in a lower disconnect force.

FIG. 19 c, row 3 shows a tapered bottom groove with an axial springmounted in the groove. The groove is shown with a 25-degree angle. Byincreasing the angle, the distance from the end of the major axis of thecoil to the point of contact increases (FIG. 19 c, row 3, column 11compared to FIG. 19 b, row 8, column 11), resulting in lower connect anddisconnect forces. On the other hand, decreasing the taper angle willbring the point of contact closer to the end of the major axis of thecoil, resulting in higher connect and disconnect forces. Increasing thegroove angle will increase the spring deflection which will increase therunning force.

FIG. 19 c, row 4 shows a tapered bottom groove with an RF axial springwith the shaft inserted in the opposite direction. The groove width issmaller than the coil height. In this case, again, the point of contactat the point at the end of the major axis of the coil and no deflectionexists and a disconnect is not possible.

Insertion force in this direction will cause the spring coil to turncounter clockwise thus applying a force along the major axis of the coiland the spring will not deflect along the major axis causing damage tothe spring.

FIG. 19 c, row 5 shows a tapered bottom groove with 45.degree. turnangle spring with the shaft inserted in the convex direction. The groovewidth is smaller than the coil width. The angular spring deflectsaxially.

FIG. 19 c, row 6 shows a tapered bottom groove with an RF axial springfilled with an elastomer with a hollow center. The groove width issmaller than the coil height (GW<CH).

FIG. 19 c, row 7 Shows a tapered bottom groove with an RF axial springfilled with an elastomer solid, as in FIG. 19 c, row 6 with the groovewidth smaller than the coil height (GW<CH).

FIG. 19 c, row 8 shows a step round flat bottom groove with an RF axialspring groove with the width smaller than the coil height. This designhas a groove with a point of contact that scrapes the wire as the coilmoves, removing oxides that may be formed on the surface of the wire.The groove has been designed to provide a lower force at disconnect byincreasing the distance between the point of contact and the point atthe end of the major axis of the coil.

FIG. 19 c, row 9 shows an inverted V bottom groove with RF axial spring.The groove width is smaller than the coil height.

FIG. 19 d, row 2 shows a tapered bottom groove with a counterclockwiseradial spring mounted in a RF position. The groove width is smaller thanthe coil height. Notice the position of the point of contact withrespect to the end point at the end of the major axis of the coil. Thecloser the point of contact to the end point at the end of the majoraxis of the coil the higher the force required to disconnect.

FIG. 19 d, row 3 shows a tapered bottom groove with a counterclockwiseradial spring mounted in an F axial position. The groove width issmaller than the coil height.

FIG. 19 d, row 4 shows a tapered bottom groove with a clockwise radialspring mounted in an RF axial position. The groove width is smaller thanthe coil height.

FIG. 19 d, row 5 shows a tapered bottom groove with a clockwise radialspring mounted in an F axial position. The groove width is smaller thanthe coil height.

FIG. 19 d, row 6 shows a dovetail groove with a counterclockwise radialspring.

FIG. 19 d, row 7 shows a special groove with a counterclockwise radialspring.

FIG. 19 d, row 8 shows an angle of zero to 221/2 degrees flat andtapered bottom groove with a counterclockwise radial spring. The groovewidth is greater than the coil width. The spring in latching will turnclockwise positioning the coil to reduce the force required todisconnect by positioning the point of contact further away from the endof the end point at the end of the major axis of the coil.

FIG. 19 d, row 9 shows an angle of 0 to 221/2 degrees. The piston groovehas a flat and a tapered bottom with a clockwise spring. The spring hasan ID to coil height ratio smaller than 4. Under load, this spring has ahigher torsional force that requires a higher force to connect ordisconnect the shaft. Upon latching, the spring turns clockwise, movingthe point of contact closer to the end of the major axis of the coil(FIG. 19 d, row 9, column 7 and FIG. 19 d, row 9, column 11) thusincreasing the force to disconnect.

FIG. 19 e, row 2 is like FIG. 19 d, row 9 except that in this case, thespring groove has an ID to coil height ratio greater than 4, thus theradial force applied to the spring at connect or disconnect issubstantially lower. As the ratio of the ID of the spring to the coilheight increases, the force required to connect or disconnect decreasesdue to a lower radial force.

FIG. 19 e, row 3 has an angle groove with a 0.degree. to 22.5.degree.piston groove angle similar to FIG. 3 except that the piston groove hasa ‘V’ bottom groove instead of a ‘V’ bottom groove with a flat. Thehousing has a ‘V’ bottom groove with a flat at the bottom of the groove.This design permits for specific load points at connect-latchedposition.

FIG. 19 e, row 4 shows a groove angle 30.degree./221/2.degree. bottomgroove with a counterclockwise radial spring. The groove width isgreater than the coil width. By changing the groove angle, the distancebetween the point of contact and the point at the end of the major axisof the coil is increased, reducing the force at disconnect.

FIG. 19 e, row 5 shows an angle 60.degree./221/2.degree. bottom groovewith a counterclockwise radial spring. The groove width is greater thanthe coil width.

FIG. 19 e, row 6 shows a special V type bottom with a 23.degree. and60.degree. angle with a counterclockwise radial spring. The groove widthgreater than the coil width.

FIG. 19 e, row 7 shows a V type bottom groove with 23.degree. and60.degree. angles like FIG. 19 e, row 6 with a counterclockwise radialspring. The groove width is greater than the coil width. By moving theshaft forward and then back it causes the spring to turn so the point ofcontact is closer to the point at the end of the major axis of the coil,increasing the force required to disconnect. When the direction oflatching is reversed, the piston is traveling in the direction of theback angle in FIG. 19 e, row 8, column 2, as opposed to traveling in thedirection of the front angle in FIG. 19 e, row 7, column 2. Theincreased force increases the turning of the spring, thus increasing thedistance between the point of contact and the end point of the majoraxis, decreasing the force required to disconnect or unlatch. CompareFIG. 19 e, row 7, column 8 showing the piston moving forward and theposition of the point of contact ‘A’ with the position of the point ofcontact FIG. 19 e, row 7, column 7.

FIG. 19 e, row 9 shows a special V bottom type groove with 22.degree.and 60.degree. angles with a radial spring. The contact point is closeto the point at the end of the major axis of the coil for a highdisconnect force.

FIG. 19 e, row 10 through FIG. 19 f, row 5 show turn angle springs,assembled in different groove designs. Notice the point of contactposition in relation to the POINT AT THE END OF THE major axis of thecoil.

More specifically, FIG. 19 e, row 10 shows a special V-bottom with23.degree. and 60.degree. angles with a 20.degree. turn angle spring.

FIG. 19 f, row 2 shows a special V-bottom with 30.degree. and 60.degree.angles with a 20.degree. turn angle spring.

FIG. 19 f, row 3 shows a special V-bottom with 60.degree. and 49.degree.angles with a 20.degree. turn angle spring.

FIG. 19 f, row 4 shows a special groove with a 45.degree. turn anglespring. In this case, the point of contact is closer to the point at theend of the minor axis of the coil. Upon insertion, the pin will causethe spring to expand radially and causing the coil to deflect along theminor axis and causing the spring coils to turn counterclockwise toconnect. At disconnect the spring coils will deflect along the minoraxis and the coils will continue to turn counterclockwise to disconnect.The spring coils will turn clockwise to its original position when theforce acting on the spring is released.

FIG. 19 f, row 5 shows a special tapered groove with a 30.degree. anglewith a 45.degree. angle at the piston groove. Notice the point ofcontact in relation to the point at the end of the major axis of thecoil.

FIG. 19 f, rows 6-8 show an axial spring mounted in a tapered bottomgroove.

More specifically, FIG. 19 f, row 6 shows an angular groove with an RFaxial spring with a groove depth greater than the coil width. Notice theposition of the point of contact at disconnect with the coil diameterexpands radially permitting disconnect.

FIG. 19 f, row 7 shows a groove similar to FIG. 38, but with a taperedangle on one side of the groove.

FIG. 19 f, row 8 shows a symmetrical angle groove with an RF axialspring. The groove depth is greater than the coil width.

FIG. 19 f, row 9 shows a flat bottom-housing groove with acounterclockwise radial spring. The groove width is greater than thecoil height. In this case, the piston has a step groove.

FIG. 19 g, rows 2-6 show various methods of mounting a panel on ahousing, using a length of spring whose groove can be mounted on thehousing or on the panel and such groove has a groove width smaller thanthe coil height so that the spring can be retained in such groove.

FIG. 19 g, row 2 shows a panel-mounted design with length of spring withaxial loading and holding.

FIG. 19 g, row 2, column 2 shows the panel in an inserting position.FIG. 19 g, row 2, column 3 shows the panel in a connected position. FIG.19 g, row 2, column 4 shows a schematic of the groove design. FIG. 19 g,row 2, column 5 shows the spring being inserted into the cavity. FIG. 19g, row 2, column 7 shows the spring in a holding position. FIG. 19 g,row 2, column 11 shows an enlarged view of FIG. 19 g, row 2, column 7.

FIG. 19 g, row 3 shows a panel mounting design with length of springwith some axial loading and latching, using a flat tapered groove. Thegroove width is smaller than the coil height. This particular designwill permit axial movement of the panel. FIG. 19 g, row 2, column 3shows the design in a latch position, which can permit axial movement.FIG. 19 g, row 3, column 8 shows an enlarged view of the latch position.FIG. 19 g, row 3, column 5 shows the point in contact in relation to theend major axis of the coil.

FIG. 19 g, row 4 shows a panel mounting design with length of springwith latching, which will permit axial movement of the panel andlocking, using a rectangular groove on the panel with the groove widthsmaller than the coil height.

FIG. 19 g, row 4, column 3 shows the design in a latch axial position,permitting some axial movement. FIG. 19 g, row 4, column 5 shows anenlarged view of the latch position. FIG. 19 g, row 4, column 9 shows alatch locked position to disconnect. FIG. 19 g, row 4, column 11 showsan enlarged view of the point of contact with end of major axis of thecoil at locking.

FIG. 19 g, row 5 shows a panel mounting with length of spring with axialloading and latching. Groove width smaller than the coil height.

FIG. 19 g, row 5, column 2 shows the panel in an inserting position andFIG. 19 g, row 5, column 3 in a latched position with the springretained in the groove mounted in the housing with the grooves offsetfrom each other. The grooves are offset to provide axial loading in thelatched position. In this case, the panel has a V-groove design. Noticethe axially loaded position of the spring to prevent axial movement whenin a connected-latched position.

FIG. 19 g, row 6 shows a panel assembly similar to FIG. 19 g, row 5except that the panel has a step flat bottom groove instead of aV-bottom type groove and the housing has a flat tapered bottom grooveand it is axially loaded in the connect position. Disconnect in theaxial position will not be possible because as the panel is pulled itcauses the spring to turn, applying the disconnect component force atthe end of the major axis of the coil where no deflection occurs.

The descriptions illustrated in FIG. 19 g, rows 2-6 show the holding,latching, and locking in the axial position. Separation of the panelfrom the housing can be done by sliding the panel longitudinally.

These designs indicated in FIG. 19 g, rows 2-6 show a panel-mounteddesign; however, the design could also be applicable to other designs,such as cylindrical, rectangular, elliptical or other types of surfaces.All designs are shown with GW<CH; however the groove could be made widerto be GW<CH with lower connect-disconnect force.

FIG. 19 g, rows 7-9 are similar to FIG. 19 e, row 3, show differentmethods of retaining the spring in the cavity.

FIG. 19 g, row 7 shows a rectangular washer retaining the spring inposition.

FIG. 19 g, row 8 shows a snap ring retaining the spring in position.

FIG. 19 g, row 9 shows a washer retained in position by rolling over aportion of the housing on to the washer housing to form the retaininggroove.

The designs are shown with specific dimensions, angles and grooveconfigurations. These values can be changed to other angles and grooveconfigurations while achieving the results indicated.

Piston Mounted Designs for Latching Applications.

FIGS. 20 a-20 g show various designs with the spring mounted in thepiston in latching applications. In essence, these applications aresimilar to the ones that are described in FIGS. 19 a-19 g except thatthe spring is mounted in the piston and it encompasses 48 variations ofgroove designs.

FIG. 20 a, row 2 shows a flat bottom groove with counterclockwise radialspring with a groove width greater than the coil width. FIG. 20 a,columns 2-9, show different assemblies of the spring and grooves and thespring in various positions.

FIG. 20 a, row 2, column 2 shows the assembly in an insert position.

FIG. 20 a, row 2, column 3 shows the assembly in a latch position.

FIG. 20 a, row 2, column 4 shows the cross section of the flat bottomgroove.

FIG. 20 a, row 2, column 5 shows an enlarged view of FIG. 20 a, row 2,column 2.

FIG. 20 a, row 2, column 6 shows the position of the spring in ahold-RUNNING position with the spring deflected along the minor axis.

FIG. 20 a, row 2, column 7 shows an enlarged position of FIG. 20 a, row2, column 3 in a latched-connect position moving in a disconnectdirection relative to the end point of the major axis.

FIG. 20 a, row 2, column 8 shows the assembly in hold-disconnectdirection.

FIG. 20 a, row 2, column 9 shows the assembly returning to the insertingposition.

FIG. 20 a, row 2, column 10 shows the spring in a free position.

FIG. 20 a, row 2, column 11 shows a partial enlarged view of FIG. 20 a,row 2, column 7.

FIG. 20 a, row 2, column 12 shows a cross sectional view of the springshowing the position of the front angle.

FIG. 20 a, row 2, column 13 shows a front view of the spring in acounterclockwise with the radial spring front angle in the front.

FIG. 20 a, row 3 is the same position as FIG. 20 a, row 2 except thatthe spring has been turned around 180.degree.

FIG. 20 a, row 4 shows a V-bottom groove with a counterclockwise radialspring with a groove width greater than the coil width.

FIG. 20 a, row 5 shows a flat bottom axial groove with an RF axialspring. The groove width is smaller than the coil height. The point ofcontact is close to the end point of the major axis of the coil,requiring a high force to disconnect.

FIG. 20 a, row 6 shows a design as in FIG. 20 a, row 5 except it uses anF spring.

FIG. 20 a, rows 7-9 and FIG. 20 b, row 2 shows a radial spring turnedinto an axial spring, using a flat bottom groove.

FIG. 20 b, row 3 shows a V-bottom groove with an RF axial spring. Thegroove width is smaller than the coil height.

Table 2 b, row 4 shows a flat bottom groove with an RF axial spring. Thegroove width is greater than the coil height, thus resulting in lowerdisconnect force.

FIG. 20 b, row 5 shows a V-bottom tapered groove with an RF axialspring. The groove width is greater than the coil height.

FIG. 20 b, row 6 shows a design like FIG. 20 b, row 8, except that theRF axial spring has offset coils that fit into the groove. The offsetcoils allow partial contact holding within the groove at differentintervals along the groove diameter walls, and the coils are deflectedaxially at different points of the groove on both sides sufficiently toretain the spring in place. The offset coils increase the total axialcoil height, which helps retain the spring inside the groove. Theinsertion and running forces are also reduced compared to FIG. 20 b, row8 where the groove width is smaller than the coil height. The differencein force is illustrated in FIG. 20 b, row 5, column 12, where we showforce versus shaft travel distance, illustrating the force developed inFIG. 20 b, row 7 and in FIG. 20 b, row 6.

FIG. 20 b, row 6, column 12 shows a diagram Force vs. Shaft TravelDistance that compares the force developed by FIG. 20 b, row 7 vs. FIG.20 b, row 6.

FIG. 20 b, row 6, columns 14-15 shows the offset coils in a freeposition.

FIG. 20 b, row 6, column 11 shows the point of contact in relation tothe point at the end of the major axis of the coils with the point ofcontact further away from the end point of the major axis of the coilthus decreasing the force required to disconnect. This can be comparedwith FIG. 20 b, row 7, column 11 whereby the point of contact is closerto the end point of the major axis of the coil, thus requiring asubstantially higher force to disconnect.

FIG. 20 b, row 7 shows an axial RF spring with a tapered bottom groovethat positions the point of contact (FIG. 20 b, row 7, column 11) closerto the end point of the major axis of the coil than in FIG. 20 b, row 6,column 11, thus requiring a greater force to disconnect.

FIG. 20 b, row 8 shows a tapered bottom groove of a differentconfiguration but similar to FIG. 20 b, row 7 with an RF axial springwith a groove width smaller than the coil height. The grooveconfiguration positions the point of contact closer to the end point atthe end of the major axis of the coil. An axial RF spring is used inthis design.

FIG. 20 b, row 9 shows a tapered bottom groove with RF axial spring witha groove width smaller than the coil height. The end point of contact ispositioned at the point of contact at the end point of the major axis ofthe coil and disconnect is not possible as the force is applied alongthe major axis since the spring will not compress along that axis.

FIG. 20 c, row 2 shows a tapered bottom groove with an axial springmounted in the groove. The position of the spring is such that thecenterline along the minor axis is slightly above the bore, thuspositioning the point of contact further away from the end point of themajor axis of the coil, resulting in a lower disconnect force.

FIG. 20 c, row 3 shows a tapered bottom groove with an axial springmounted in the groove. The groove is shown with a 25-degree angle. Byincreasing the angle, the distance from the end point of the major axisof the coil to the point of contact increases (FIG. 20 c, row 3, column11 compared to FIG. 20 b, row 9, column 11), resulting in lower connectand disconnect forces. On the other hand, decreasing the taper anglewill bring the point of contact closer to the end point of the majoraxis of the coil, resulting in higher connect and disconnect forces.Increasing the groove angle will increase the spring deflection whichwill increase the running force (FIG. 19 c, row 2, column 6, FIG. 19 c,row 3, column 8).

FIG. 20 c, row 4 shows a tapered bottom groove with an RF axial springwith the shaft inserted in the opposite direction. The groove width issmaller than the coil height. In this case, again, the point of contactis at the end point of the major axis of the coil and no deflectionexists and a disconnect is not possible.

FIG. 20 c, row 5 shows a tapered bottom groove with 45.degree. turnangle spring with the shaft inserted in the convex direction. The groovewidth is smaller than the coil width. The angular spring deflectsaxially.

FIG. 20 c, row 6 shows a tapered bottom groove with an RF axial springfilled with an elastomer with a hollow center. The groove width issmaller than the coil height (GW<CH).

FIG. 20 c, row 7 shows a tapered bottom groove with an RF axial springfilled with an elastomer solid, as in FIG. 20 c, row 6 with the groovewidth smaller than the coil height (GW<CH).

FIG. 20 c, row 8 shows a step round flat bottom groove with an RF axialspring groove with the width smaller than the coil height. This designhas a groove with a point of contact that scrapes the wire as the coilmoves, removing oxides that may be formed on the surface of the wire.The groove has been designed to provide a lower force at disconnect byincreasing the distance between the point of contact and the end pointof the major axis of the coil.

FIG. 20 c, row 9 shows an inverted V bottom groove with an RF axialspring. The groove width is smaller than the coil height.

FIG. 20 d, row 2 shows a tapered bottom groove with a counterclockwiseradial spring mounted in an RF position. The groove width is smallerthan the coil height. Notice the position of the point of contact withrespect to the end point at the end of the major axis of the coil. Thecloser the point of contact to the end point of the major axis of thecoil, the higher the force required to disconnect.

FIG. 20 d, row 3 shows a tapered bottom groove with a counterclockwiseradial spring mounted in an F axial position. The groove width issmaller than the coil height.

FIG. 20 d, row 4 shows a tapered bottom groove with a clockwise radialspring mounted in an RF axial position. The groove width is smaller thanthe coil height.

FIG. 20 d, row 5 shows a tapered bottom groove with a clockwise radialspring mounted in an F axial position. The groove width is smaller thanthe coil height.

FIG. 20 d, row 6 shows a dovetail groove with a counterclockwise radialspring.

FIG. 20 d, row 7 shows a special groove with a counterclockwise radialspring.

FIG. 20 d, row 8 shows an angle of zero to 221/2 degrees flat andtapered bottom groove with a counterclockwise radial spring. The groovewidth is greater than the coil width. The spring in latching will turnclockwise positioning the coil to reduce the force required todisconnect by positioning the point of contact further away from the endof the end point at the end of the major axis of the coil.

FIG. 20 d, row 9 shows an angle of 0 to 221/2 degrees. The piston groovehas a flat and a tapered bottom with a clockwise spring. The spring hasan ID to coil height ratio smaller than 4. Under load, this spring has ahigher torsional force that requires a higher force to connect ordisconnect the shaft. Upon latching, the spring turns clockwise, movingthe point of contact closer to the end point of the major axis of thecoil (FIG. 20 d, row 9 column 7, column 11) thus increasing the force todisconnect.

FIG. 20 e, row 2 is like FIG. 20 d, row 9 except that in this case, thespring groove has an ID to coil height ratio greater than 4, thus thetorsional force applied to the spring at connect or disconnect issubstantially lower. As the ratio of the ID of the spring to the coilheight increases, the force required to connect or disconnect decreasesdue to a lower torsional force.

FIG. 20 e, row 3 has an angle groove with a 0.degree. to 22.5.degree.piston groove angle similar to FIG. 20 a, row 4 except that the pistongroove in FIG. 20 e, row 3 has a ‘V’ bottom groove instead of a ‘V’bottom groove with a flat. The housing in FIG. 20 e, row 3 has a ‘V’bottom groove with a flat at the bottom of the groove. This designpermits for specific load points at connect-latched position.

FIG. 20 e, row 4 shows a groove angle 30.degree./221/2.degree. bottomgroove with a counterclockwise radial spring. The groove width isgreater than the coil width. By changing the groove angle, the distancebetween the point of contact and the end point of the major axis of thecoil is increased, reducing the force at disconnect.

FIG. 20 e, row 5 shows an angle 60.degree./221/2.degree. bottom groovewith a counterclockwise radial spring. The groove width is greater thanthe coil width.

FIG. 20 e, row 6 shows a special V type bottom with a 23.degree. and60.degree. angle with a counterclockwise radial spring. The groove widthis greater than the coil width.

FIG. 20 e, rows 7-8 show a V type bottom groove with 23.degree. and60.degree. angles like FIG. 20 e, row 6 with a counterclockwise radialspring. The groove width is greater than the coil width. By moving theshaft forward and then back we cause the spring to turn so the point ofcontact is closer to the end point at the end of the major axis of thecoil, increasing the force required to disconnect. When the direction oflatching is reversed, the piston is traveling in the direction of theback angle in FIG. 19 e, row 7, as opposed to traveling in the directionof the front angle in FIG. 19 e, row 6. The increased force increasesthe turning of the spring, thus increasing the distance between thepoint of contact and the end point of the major axis, increasing theforce required to disconnect or unlatch. Compare FIG. 20 e, row 7,column 8 showing the piston moving forward and the position of the pointof contact “A” with the position of the point of contact FIG. 20 e, row8, column 7.

FIG. 20 e, row 9 shows a special V bottom type groove with 22.degree.and 60.degree. angles with a radial spring. The contact point is closeto the end point at the end of the major axis of the coil for a higherdisconnect force.

FIG. 19 f, rows 2-6 show turn angle springs, assembled in differentgroove designs. Notice the point of contact position in relation to theend point of the major axis of the coil.

FIG. 20 f, row 2 shows a special V-bottom with 23.degree. and 60.degree.angles with a 20.degree. turn angle spring.

FIG. 20 f, row 3 shows a special V-bottom with 30.degree. and 60.degree.angles with a 20.degree. turn angle spring.

FIG. 20 f, row 4 shows a special V-bottom with 30.degree. and 49.degree.angles with a 20.degree. turn angle spring.

FIG. 20 f, row 5 shows a special groove with a 45.degree. turn anglespring. In this case, the point of contact is closer to the end point atthe end of the minor axis of the coil. Upon insertion, the pin willcause the spring to contract radially (FIG. 20 f, row 5, column 2) andcausing the coil to deflect along the minor axis (FIG. 20 f, row 5,column 6) and causing the spring coils to turn counterclockwise toconnect (FIG. 20 f, row 5, column 7). At disconnect the spring coilswill deflect along the minor axis and the coils will continue to turncounterclockwise to disconnect (FIG. 20 f, row 5, column 8). The springcoils will turn clockwise to its original position (FIG. 20 f, row 5,column 9) when the force acting on the spring is released.

FIG. 20 f, row 6 shows a special tapered groove with a 30.degree. anglewith a 45.degree. angle at the piston groove. Notice the point ofcontact in relation to the end point at the end of the major axis of thecoil.

FIG. 20 f, row 7 shows a flat bottom-housing groove with acounterclockwise radial spring. The groove width is greater than thecoil height. In this case, the piston has a step groove.

FIG. 20 f, row 8 shows a panel mounted design with length of spring withaxial loading and holding.

FIG. 20 f, row 8, column 2 shows the panel in an insert position. FIG.20 f, row 8, column 3 shows the panel in a connected position. FIG. 20f, row 8, column 4 shows a schematic of the groove design. FIG. 20 f,row 8, column 5 shows the spring being inserted into the cavity. FIG. 20f, row 5, column 7 shows the spring in a holding position. FIG. 20 f,row 8, column 11 shows an enlarged view of FIG. 20 f, row 5, column 7with the panel bottoming.

FIG. 20 f, row 9 shows a panel mounting design with length of springwith some axial loading and latching, using a flat tapered groove. Thegroove width is smaller than the coil height. This particular designwill permit axial movement of the panel. FIG. 20 f, row 9, column 3shows the design in a latch position, which will permit axial movement.FIG. 20 f, row 9, column 7 shows an enlarged view of the latch position.FIG. 20 f, row 9, column 11 shows the point in contact in relation tothe end point of the major axis of the coil.

FIG. 20 g, row 2 shows a panel mounting design with length of springthat will permit axial movement of the panel and locking, using arectangular groove on the housing with the groove width smaller than thecoil height.

FIG. 20 g, row 2, column 3 shows the design in a latch axial position,permitting some axial movement. FIG. 20 g, row 2, column 7 shows anenlarged view of the latch locking means and FIG. 20 g, row 5, column 10shows an enlarged view of the point of contact with end of major axis ofthe coil.

FIG. 20 g, row 3 shows a panel mounted design using a length of spring.The groove width is smaller than the coil height. FIG. 20 g, row 3,column 2 shows the panel in an inserting position and FIG. 20 g, row 3,column 3 in a latched position with the spring retained in the groovemounted in the housing with the grooves offset from each other. Thegrooves are offset to provide axial loading in the latched position. Inthis case, the panel has a V-groove design. Notice the axially loadedposition of the spring to prevent axial movement when in aconnected-latched position.

FIG. 20 g, row 4 shows a panel assembly similar to FIG. 20 g, row 3except that the panel has a step flat bottom groove instead of aV-bottom type groove and the panel has a flat tapered bottom groove andit is axially loaded in the connect position. Disconnect in the axialposition will not be possible because as the panel is pulled it causesthe spring to turn, applying the disconnect component force at the endpoint of the major axis of the coil where no deflection occurs. Thedescriptions illustrated in FIG. 20 f, row 8 through FIG. 20 g, row 4show the holding, latching, and locking in the axial position.Separation of the panel from the housing can be done by sliding thepanel longitudinally.

The designs indicated in FIG. 20 f, row 8 through FIG. 20 g, row 4 showa panel mounted design; however the design could also be applicable toother designs, such as cylindrical, rectangular, elliptical or othertypes of surfaces. All designs are shown with GW<CH; however the groovecould be made wider to be GW<CH with lower connect-disconnect force.

The designs are shown with specific dimensions, angles and grooveconfigurations. These values can be changed to other angles and grooveconfigurations while achieving the results indicated.

Spring Characteristics that Affect Performance

Spring Design and Installation Factors

Using an axial spring to enhance retention of the spring in the grooveor using a radial spring turned into an axial spring at installation.

Using an axial spring or a radial spring turned into an axial spring atinstallation to increase initial insertion, running and disconnectforces

Changing the Coil Width to Coil Height Ratio

When the coil width to height ratio is close to one, the spring willturn easier reducing forces since the spring is round.

The smaller the coil width to coil height ratio, the smaller the backangle. The smaller the back angle, the higher the insertion forcerequired when the piston is inserted in the spring into the back anglefirst. The opposite is true when the coil width to coil height ratio isreversed, i.e., the back angle is larger and the insertion forces arelower.

Using an F axial spring to increase the insertion running and disconnectforces compared to an RF spring.

Using an RF axial spring to reduce the insertion, running, anddisconnect forces.

Using an offset axial spring to reduce the initial insertion runningforce, and disconnect forces.

Using a length of spring mounted in an axial type groove for panelapplications

Using a spring with a ratio of ID to coil height to vary insertion,connect and the disconnect forces. As the ratio increases, the forceswill decrease or vice versa as the ratio decreases the forces increase.

Using springs with varying turn angles to vary forces.

Using an axial spring with offset coils where the groove width issmaller than the coil height and addition of the coil height of thevarious coils to reduce insertion, running, connect, and disconnectforces and the ratio of connect to disconnect force.

The connect/disconnect forces decrease as the ratio of ID to coil heightincreases.

Using variable means to form the ring, ranging from threading the ends,latching the ends, interfacing the ends and butting as opposed towelding.

Varying the Device Geometry to Control the Forces

Designing the groove geometry to position the point of contact atdisconnect relative to the end point of the major axis of the coil.

Positioning the end point of the spring major axis. The shorter thedistance to the contact point, the higher the force required todisconnect.

Positioning the end point of the spring minor axis. The shorter thedistance to the contact point, the lower the force required todisconnect.

Varying the groove design and insertion direction to vary the force.

Varying the groove geometry so that the spring torsional force in thelatched position is in an axial direction thus increasing the forcerequired to disconnect and minimizing axial play.

Position the latching grooves so that they are offset, causing the axialor radial spring coils to turn, introducing an axial force that reducesaxial play and increases the force required to connect-disconnect. FIG.19 g, row 5, column 12; row 2, FIG. 20 a, row 6, column 6 and row 8,column 6.

Position the geometry of the latching grooves that will cause the axialand radial spring coils to turn, increasing the force required toconnect-disconnect. FIGS. 12e and 13 e.

The use of multiple springs and grooves to increase the forces and thecurrent carrying capacity.

The forces vary according to the direction of the piston insertion.

Using threaded grooves with a spring length retained in the groove witha groove width smaller than the coil height.

In accordance with the present invention to attain the maximumdisconnect force, the point of contact should be as close as possible tothe end of the major axis of the coil. FIG. 19 and FIG. 20 a (rows 5,columns 7 and 11).

To attain the minimum disconnect force, the contact point, should be asclose as possible to the end of the minor axis of the coil. FIG. 19 aand FIG. 20 a (row 1, column 7 and 11).

An axial spring with offset coils mounted in a housing with the groovewidth smaller than the addition of the coil height of the various coils,providing the following features:

Lower spring retention force.

Lower insertion force

Lower ratio of disconnect to connect

Lower ratio of disconnect to running force.

Reference FIG. 19 b and FIG. 20 b, row 6 vs. row 8.

Modification of the groove cavity that affects the position of the pointof contact in relation to the end point of the major axis of the coilthat affects the force required to disconnect, connect. Reference FIG.19 b and FIG. 20 b, row 8 vs. row 9 and row 8, column 4 vs. row 9,column 4.

Modification of the groove cavity that affects the position of the pointof contact in relation to the end of the major axis of the coil thataffects the force required to disconnect-connect. Reference FIG. 19 band FIG. 20 b, row 9 vs. FIG. 19 c, 20 c, row 2 and FIG. 19 a, 20 a, row9, column 4 vs. FIG. 20 a, 20 c, row 2, column 4.

The greater the interference between the coil height and the groovewidth, the higher the force required to disconnect. FIG. 19 a and FIG.20 a (row 5, column 5 versus FIG. 19 b, 20 b, row 4, column 4) FIG. 19a, 20 a, row 5, column 5 has interference between the coil height andthe groove width while row 6 shows a clearance between the coil heightand the groove width.

The higher the position of the coil centerline along the minor axis inrelation to the groove depth. (Reference FIG. 19 b and FIG. 20 b, row 8,column 4 versus FIG. 19 c, 20 c, row 2, column 4) the higher the forcerequired to disconnect.

The type of axial spring mounted in a housing or piston RF vs. F with RFhaving substantially more deflection but lower force compared to F.Reference FIG. 19 a and FIG. 20 a, row 5, column 2, column 5, and column6 versus row 6, column 2, column 5 and column 6.

Manner and type of spring used affects the force required toconnect/disconnect, using an axial RF or an F spring assembled into agroove whose groove width is smaller than the coil height versus aradial spring turned into an axial spring RF or F spring with coilscanting clockwise or counterclockwise. Reference FIG. 19 a and FIG. 20a, rows 5 and 6 versus rows 7, 8, 9 and FIG. 19 b, 20 b row 2 and alsorow 8 vs. FIG. 19 d, 20 d, rows 2-5.

Direction of movement of the piston or housing a radial spring thataffects the force required to connect and disconnect. Reference TablesFIG. 19 d, 20 d, row 8, columns 2, 5, 7 and 11 vs. row 9, column 2, 5,7, and 11 due to variation that exists between row 8 and row 9 betweenthe point of contact and the point at the end of the major axis of thecoil that results in substantial variation in forces.

The greater the insertion force of an axial spring into a groove whoseGW<CH, the higher the force required to disconnect (Reference FIG. 19 b,20 b, row 8, column 5 vs. row 9, column 5).

Radial springs with different ratios of spring ID to coil height mountedin a housing or piston. Reference FIG. 19 d, 20 d, row 9 vs. FIG. 19 e,20 e, row 2. The greater the ratio the lower the forces.

Variations of groove configuration affecting the connect-disconnectforce by varying the groove angle. Reference FIG. 19 e, row 3, column 5,column 7, column 11 vs. row 4, column 5, column 7, column 11. Such anglevariation affects the distance between the point of contact and thepoint at the end of the major axis of the coil. The closer these twopoints the higher the force required to disconnect.

The effect of axially loading in the latched position or disconnect andthe effect on initial disconnect force and travel.

A radial spring axially loaded in the latched position will require ahigher initial disconnect force than a non-axially loaded spring. (FIGS.4a and 4e vs. FIGS. 5a and 5e and FIGS. 4-5 f vs. 4-5 g. Also FIGS. 6aand 6e vs. FIGS. 7a and 7e and FIG. 6-7 g). As shown in FIGS. 5a and 7a, an abutting relationship between a housing bore and piston eliminatingaxial play upon connection.

In that regard, a housing bore, groove, and piston are oriented forenabling the production of an audible sound indicating a connectionbetween the housing and piston upon abutting of the housing bore andpiston.

With reference to FIGS. 5a-5d , a major axis of the coil spring ispositioned so that it is above an inside diameter of the housing groove.

With reference to FIGS. 7a-7d , a major axis of the coil spring ispositioned so that it is below an outer diameter of the piston groove.

An axially loaded axial spring will develop a higher initial force asshown in FIG. 19 g, row 2, column 3, column 7, column 11 at disconnectthan a non-axially loaded, and also FIG. 20 f, row 8, column 3, column 7and column 11.

Direction of the spring upon insertion as pointed out by the directionof the arrows. (Canted coil springs always deflect along the minor axisof the coil). The spring turns in the direction of the arrow, as shownin the following:

FIGS. 1a, 1b forward in the direction of the arrow, FIG. 19 a and FIG.20 a, row 2, column 8 and column 11 in the opposite direction.

An axial spring axially loaded in the latched position will require ahigher disconnect force than a non-axially loaded spring.

Recognizing the direction in which the spring will deflect and may turn,assists in selecting the groove configuration. When the load is applied,the spring always deflects along the minor axis of the coil as it is theeasiest way to deflect. The spring turns when the ratio of the coilwidth to the coil height is equal to 1 or greater. As the ratioincreases, the ability of the spring coils to turn decreases, causingthe spring to deflect instead of turn. Specifically,

A spring with different turn angles in conjunction with differentgrooves to vary the force to connect and disconnect. Turn angles permitthe design of the grooves so that the spring does not have to be turnedat assembly. Reference FIG. 19 f and FIG. 20 f, rows 2, columns 2, 7, 11and row 6, columns 2, 5, 7 11;

Disconnect by expanding the ID of the spring and compressing the coilsalong the minor axis of the coils to affect insertion, connect anddisconnect. FIG. 19 f, rows 6-8;

Housing mounted grooves using a single groove versus a split groove.Note: all drawings in FIG. 19 a show a split groove and FIG. 20 a showsa single groove in row 4, column 2;

Panel mounted spring with groove width smaller than the coil heightusing a spring in length. Axial latching and axial loading the spring toprevent axial movement. FIG. 19 g, rows 2-3, FIG. 20 g, rows 8-9;

Axial loading the spring coils by offsetting the position of the groovesaxially between the housing and shaft so as to create an axial load onthe spring to reduce or eliminate movement between the shaft andhousing. This configuration has a higher force as shown in FIGS. 4-5;

Multiple springs mounted in multiple single grooves of any of thedesigns in FIGS. 19 a-19 g, FIGS. 20 a-20 g and in FIGS. 1-18 f witheither radial or axial springs that can be mounted radially or axiallywith springs for variable force retention, play or no play andconductivity. See FIGS. 8 and 9.

Threaded grooves using a spring length retained in the groove having agroove width smaller than the coil height. FIGS. 10a, 10b and 10 d;

Threaded grooves using a radial or turn angle spring in length using agroove having a groove width greater than the coil width (GW>CW) FIG. 19a, row 1, column 2, row 4, column 2 and FIG. 19 d, rows 6-9 through FIG.19 f, row 5 and FIG. 20 g, row 2 and FIG. 20 f, row 7 and FIGS. 5, 6, 7and 8;

Panel mounted in a housing radial or axial spring in length and thespring can be retained in the panel or the housing for axial holding,latching or locking the panel to the housing and when in a latched orlocked position the panel may be axially loaded to eliminate axial play;

Various types of spring-ring groove mounted designs with variable meansto form a ring, ranging from threading the ends, latching the ends,interfacing the ends and butting, using non-welded springs to form aring. FIGS. 15, 16, 17, and 18;

Different groove configurations that affect the force parameters,depending on the position of the point load in reference to the endpoint of the major axis of the coil that affects the ratio of disconnectto insertion, disconnect to running force, and the disconnect forceswith a radial spring;

A radial or axial spring whose coil width to coil height ratio is onethat will require higher force at connect and disconnect due to thesmaller back angle of the coil. The closer the ratio to one the higherthe force required to disconnect-connect;

The smaller the groove width to coil height ratio, the higher forces.Reference FIG. 19, row 8, column 4 vs. FIG. 19, row 9, column 4;

Variation of the groove geometry by including a step groove design tocontrol the position of the contact point relative to the end point ofthe centerline. FIG. 19 f, row 9, column 2, 7, and 11;

Variation of the groove geometry to control the position of the point ofcontact and the end point of the centerline. FIG. 19 f, rows 6-8;

Device with high forces created by offsetting the centerlines of thegrooves as shown in FIG. 20 a, rows 6 and 8;

Reversing the direction of travel in a clockwise or counterclockwiseradial spring will switch from the front angle to the back angle or viceversa, thus changing the relative position of the contact point withrespect to the end point of the centerline thus varying the forces. SeeFIG. 19 e and FIG. 20 e, rows 7, column 8 and row 8, column 7 comparingthe position of the contact point to the end point centerline; and

Retention of radial spring with a dovetail type groove FIG. 19 d and 20d, rows 6-7.

Although there has been hereinabove described a specific spring latchingconnectors radially and axially mounted in accordance with the presentinvention for the purpose of illustrating the manner in which theinvention may be used to advantage, it should be appreciated that theinvention is not limited thereto. That is, the present invention maysuitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of the recitedelements. Further, the invention illustratively disclosed hereinsuitably may be practiced in the absence of any element which is notspecifically disclosed herein. Accordingly, any and all modifications,variations or equivalent arrangements which may occur to those skilledin the art, should be considered to be within the scope of the presentinvention as defined in the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A spring holding electrical connector comprising:a housing having a bore and at least one open end opening into the bore;at least two circular grooves located inside the bore of the housingincluding a first circular groove and a second circular groove, each ofsaid at least two circular grooves comprising a bottom wall; at leasttwo canted coil springs including a first canted coil spring and asecond canted coil spring, each of said at least two canted coil springsbeing in a ring configuration and each having a plurality ofinterconnected coils, each coil having a major axis and a minor axis,and the first canted coil spring located in the first circular grooveand the second canted coil spring located in the second circular groove;a piston located at least in part in said bore, said piston comprising atapered insertion end, a planar end surface extending across alengthwise axis of the piston at the tapered insertion end, and anexterior surface defining a piston outside diameter; wherein said firstcanted coil spring is biased against the bottom wall of the of the firstcircular groove and against the exterior surface of the piston and saidsecond canted coil spring is biased against the bottom wall of thesecond circular groove and against the tapered insertion end; andwherein the piston is without a groove where the first canted coilspring is biased against the exterior surface of the piston in a holdingposition of the piston within the housing.
 2. The spring holdingelectrical connector according to claim 1, wherein the first canted coilspring is spaced from the second canted coil spring by a distance thatis less than the major axis of a coil of the first canted coil spring.3. The spring holding electrical connector according to claim 1, whereinthe bottom wall of the first circular groove comprises two taperedsurfaces.
 4. The spring holding electrical connector according to claim3, wherein the first canted coil spring is a radial canted coil springor an axial canted coil spring.
 5. The spring holding electricalconnector according to claim 4, wherein the first circular groove hasonly one sidewall.
 6. The spring holding electrical connector accordingto claim 5, wherein the second circular groove has no sidewall.
 7. Thespring holding electrical connector according to claim 4, wherein thefirst circular groove has two sidewalls on either side of the bottomwall.
 8. The spring holding electrical connector according to claim 1,wherein the tapered insertion end is a chamfered insertion end.
 9. Thespring holding electrical connector according to claim 7, wherein thesecond circular groove has two sidewalls of the bottom wall.
 10. Thespring holding electrical connector according to claim 4, wherein thehousing further comprises a third circular groove located adjacent thesecond circular groove.
 11. The spring holding electrical connectoraccording to claim 10, further comprising a third canted coil spring,said third canted coil spring located in said third circular groove. 12.The spring holding electrical connector according to claim 11, whereinthe third circular groove comprises two sidewalls and a bottom wall. 13.The spring holding electrical connector according to claim 11, whereinthe second canted coil spring is spaced from the third canted coilspring by a distance that is less than the major axis of a coil of thesecond canted coil spring.
 14. The spring holding electrical connectoraccording to claim 13, wherein the first circular groove has only onesidewall and the third circular groove has only one sidewall.
 15. Aspring holding electrical connector comprising: a housing having a boreand at least one open end opening into the bore; at least two circulargrooves located inside the bore of the housing including a firstcircular groove and a second circular groove, each of said at least twocircular grooves comprising a bottom wall; at least two canted coilsprings including a first canted coil spring and a second canted coilspring, each of said at least two canted coil springs being in a ringconfiguration and each having a plurality of interconnected coils, eachcoil having a major axis and a minor axis, and the first canted coilspring located in the first circular groove and the second canted coilspring located in the second circular groove; a piston located at leastin part in said bore, said piston comprising a tapered insertion end, aplanar end surface extending across a lengthwise axis of the piston atthe tapered insertion end, and an exterior surface defining a pistonoutside diameter; wherein said first canted coil spring is biasedagainst the bottom wall of the of the first circular groove and againstthe exterior surface of the piston and said second canted coil spring isbiased against the bottom wall of the second circular groove and againstthe exterior surface of the piston; and wherein the piston is without agroove where the first canted coil spring is biased against the exteriorsurface of the piston in a holding position of the piston within thehousing and the piston is removable from the housing without the firstcanted coil spring latching any groove on the piston.
 16. The springholding electrical connector according to claim 15, wherein the bottomwall of the first circular groove comprises two tapered surfaces. 17.The spring holding electrical connector according to claim 15, whereinthe first canted coil spring is a radial canted coil spring or an axialcanted coil spring.
 18. The spring holding electrical connectoraccording to claim 17, wherein the first circular groove has only onesidewall.
 19. The spring holding electrical connector according to claim15, wherein the first canted coil spring is spaced from the secondcanted coil spring by a distance that is less than the major axis of acoil of the first canted coil spring.
 20. The spring holding electricalconnector according to claim 18, wherein the second circular groove hasno sidewall.
 21. The spring holding electrical connector according toclaim 17, wherein the first circular groove has two sidewalls on eitherside of the bottom wall.
 22. The spring holding electrical connectoraccording to claim 21, wherein the second circular groove has twosidewalls on either side of the bottom wall.
 23. The spring holdingelectrical connector according to claim 17, wherein the housing furthercomprises a third circular groove located adjacent the second circulargroove.
 24. The spring holding electrical connector according to claim23, further comprising a third canted coil spring, said third cantedcoil spring located in said third circular groove.
 25. The springholding electrical connector according to claim 24, wherein the thirdcanted coil spring is biased against a bottom wall of the third circulargroove and against the tapered insertion end of the piston.
 26. Thespring holding electrical connector according to claim 24, wherein thethird circular groove comprises two sidewalls and a bottom wall.
 27. Thespring holding electrical connector according to claim 24, wherein thesecond canted coil spring is spaced from the third canted coil spring bya distance that is less than the major axis of a coil of the secondcanted coil spring.
 28. The spring holding electrical connectoraccording to claim 27, wherein the first circular groove has only onesidewall and the third circular groove has only one sidewall.
 29. Thespring holding electrical connector according to claim 17, wherein thehousing comprises a second open end opening into the bore.
 30. Thespring holding electrical connector according to claim 15, wherein thetapered insertion end is a chamfered insertion end.
 31. A spring holdingelectrical connector comprising: a housing having a bore and at leastone open end opening into the bore; three circular grooves locatedinside the bore of the housing including a first circular groove, asecond circular groove, and a third circular groove; each of said threecircular grooves comprising a bottom wall; three canted coil springsincluding a first canted coil spring, a second canted coil spring, and athird canted coil spring, each of said three canted coil springs beingin a ring configuration and each having a plurality of interconnectedcoils, each coil having a major axis and a minor axis, and the firstcanted coil spring located in the first circular groove, the secondcanted coil spring located in the second circular groove, and the thirdcanted coil spring located in the third circular groove; a pistonlocated at least in part in said bore, said piston comprising a taperedinsertion end, a planar end surface extending across a lengthwise axisof the piston at the tapered insertion end, and an exterior surfacedefining a piston outside diameter; wherein said first canted coilspring is biased against the bottom wall of the of the first circulargroove and against the exterior surface of the piston, said secondcanted coil spring is biased against the bottom wall of the secondcircular groove and against the exterior surface of the piston, and saidthird canted coil spring is biased against the bottom wall of the thirdcircular groove and against the exterior surface of the piston; andwherein the piston is without a groove where the first canted coilspring, the second canted coil spring, and the third canted coil springare biased against the exterior surface of the piston in a holdingposition of the piston within the housing.
 32. The spring holdingelectrical connector according to claim 31, wherein the bottom wall ofthe first circular groove comprises two tapered surfaces.
 33. The springholding electrical connector according to claim 31, wherein the firstcanted coil spring is a radial canted coil spring or an axial cantedcoil spring.
 34. The spring holding electrical connector according toclaim 33, wherein the first circular groove has only one sidewall. 35.The spring holding electrical connector according to claim 31, whereinthe first canted coil spring is spaced from the second canted coilspring by a distance that is less than the major axis of a coil of thefirst canted coil spring.
 36. The spring holding electrical connectoraccording to claim 34, wherein the second circular groove has nosidewall.
 37. The spring holding electrical connector according to claim36, wherein the third circular groove has only one sidewall.
 38. Thespring holding electrical connector according to claim 33, wherein thefirst circular groove has two sidewalls on either side of the bottomwall.